Florida Georgia Line Says ‘Anti-Police’ Actions Were a ‘Misunderstanding’

Florida Georgia Line have made it clear that they meant no disrespect to police officers at a recent music festival.

Multiple officers voiced their concern after they were banned from the backstage area of the Country Thunder festival at the duo’s request. The band later asked for a police escort out of the event, but multiple officers refused. Afterwards, some officers took to social media to voice the band’s ‘disrespect’ toward them.

Band members Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard have officially addressed the incident with an extensive message posted to their official website.

“You won’t find two guys who are more supportive of the police than we are,” the duo’s statement reads. “What happened over the weekend was a misunderstanding that was blown out of proportion and taken out of context. There is nothing more to this story beyond our team feeling that it would be redundant for us to use local authorities when we are already covered. Our management is routinely asked if they need help from local law enforcement for additional security backstage at concerts, which is common among touring acts. Some acts accept the offer, but most don’t because they have their own security, or the promoters provide it.”

FOX411reports Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth got a surprise phone call from Kelley after the incident went viral. “[Kelley] was extremely apologetic and said it was a misunderstanding,” he explained. “He said he’s got family and friends in law enforcement…he also talked to [his] manager and told them to change the wording they’ve used about [police backstage] that’s been the same thing they’ve used for the past four-and-a-half years.”

“We have an enormous amount of respect for the brave men and women who protect our communities and allow us and our fans to have a good time at our shows,” the duo says. “Nothing is more important than our fans’ safety. We are lovers of all people, and want to be a part of the change that is needed right now. We encourage everyone to do the same. Let’s love one another.”